A new Mastercard survey showed that intra-regional travel has become more popular in the Middle East than destination further away due to the global economic downturn. Survey respondents were asked about their likely travel destinations in the next six months, and chose six intra-regional destinations out of a total of ten top destinations. Egypt and the UAE were the most popular choices for UAE respondents at 27 percent and 19 percent respectively, while Egypt and India were both favored by 21 percent, Lebanon (20 percent) and Turkey (19 percent).
MasterCard area business head for the Gulf countries said intra-regional destinations have become more popular because consumers want to take advantage of less expensive travel options following the economic recession. Raghu Malhotra said “With connectivity among key tourist destinations within the Middle East becoming stronger, as well as the frequent airline promotions, consumers have become inclined to explore destinations closer to home.”
A bit out of the way, but worth the trip is the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires (MALBA) in the barrio of Castelar. It showcases works by some of the best Latin American artists around and is a beautiful building in itself. There is an attached library, gift shop and café. It is open Thursday to Monday 12:00pm to 8:00pm, and Wednesday 12:00pm to 9:00pm. General admission is $18. ...
This twin-towered fort, which sits atop a gigantic rock, was built in the 1580s when Muscat was occupied by the Portuguese. It served as a bastion to protect the harbor from invaders and also served as a prison for many decades. It is currently a museum showcasing Omani culture, history and heritage. It is not, however, open to the general public. Only foreign dignitaries and heads of state are al...
The orient generally refers to East Asia, but the University of Chicago's Oriental Institute is dedicated to the Middle East. It is one of the world's premier research institutions regarding the region's archaeology and history. The Institute was founded in 1919, and the art deco building it's housed in was completed in 1930. The collection is largely due to the efforts of ...
The Seljuk king Toghrol had this monument built in the 12th century when Rey was the capital of Persia. ...